Big Tech and its ‘Big Shock’ to Childhood’ - Part 4
Spiritual practices to restore and strengthen mental health
It is widely considered that a phone-based or technology-based life leads to spiritual degradation.
Many cultures have written about the actions that bring people closer to God.
In his book ‘The Anxious Generation’, Jonathan Haidt refers to that idea as divinity. This isn’t purely religious. Some things are considered pure or sacred and they lead to a moral elevation. Using phones and technology all the time doesn’t bring you upward but downward because it blocks key spiritual practices. Having spiritual practices improves people’s overall well-being.
“When people see morally beautiful actions, they feel elevated on a vertical dimension that can be labeled divinity,” Haidt writes.
He suggests various practices which lead to morally “beautiful actions”, and which children and adults can use to lift themselves out of the smartphone and technology swamp that many experience. These include:
1. Gratitude Practices
The importance of cultivating a sense of gratitude for overall happiness and mental well-being, such as keeping a gratitude journal, or incorporating prayers or meditations of thankfulness. This practice is linked to increased positive emotions and resilience.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness involves paying full attention to the present moment without judgment. Haidt's work on the "happiness hypothesis" notes that cultivating mindfulness can foster a deep sense of well-being. Regular meditation has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance emotional regulation.
3. Acts of Compassion and Altruism
Haidt’s research on moral emotions and human flourishing underscores the importance of kindness and compassion. Engaging in spiritual practices that emphasise compassion—whether through prayer, volunteer work, or simply being more empathetic—can strengthen mental health. These practices help foster a sense of interconnectedness and purpose.
4. Community and Social Bonds
Haidt often highlights the power of social connections and community involvement for mental health. Many spiritual practices encourage participation in community activities, whether through religious services, group meditation, or communal rituals. Engaging in these practices can reduce feelings of isolation and create a supportive network of people.
5. Journaling and Reflective Practices
Spiritual practices like journaling allow individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences deeply. This practice can be a way of understanding one’s spiritual beliefs, tracking personal growth, and reflecting on challenges, contributing to better mental clarity and emotional well-being.
6. Focusing on Meaning and Purpose
Haidt’s research suggests that a sense of purpose and meaning is crucial for flourishing. Spiritual practices, such as prayer, reading the bible, or connecting with one's spiritual community, can help individuals explore their sense of meaning and find deeper purpose in their daily lives. A sense of meaning is linked with higher life satisfaction and better mental health.
7. Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a spiritual practice that can significantly improve mental health. Haidt discusses how forgiveness can lead to emotional release and healing. Whether through prayer, meditation, or conversations with a spiritual advisor, practicing forgiveness can release negative emotions and help individuals move forward with greater peace of mind.
8. Physical and Spiritual Self-Care
Haidt also acknowledges the connection between mind and body. Spiritual practices often include self-care rituals that promote physical well-being, like yoga or mindful walking. These practices can help individuals feel more grounded, reduce stress, and maintain balance, which are all critical for mental health.
9. Connection with Nature
Spiritual practices that emphasise nature—whether through nature walks, outdoor meditation, or simply observing the beauty of the natural world—can help reduce stress and restore mental clarity. Haidt’s work on happiness highlights the importance of awe and wonder, which can often be triggered by spending time in nature.
“There is a God-shaped hole in every human heart,” Blaise Pascal (philosopher) once wrote. We might not all fill it with religion, but with a strong spiritual practice, we’ll also strengthen our mental health.
Everyone needs meaning, connection, and spiritual elevation. Many people try to fill that void with a phone-based or technology-based life. Unfortunately, the often trivial and degrading content we find there is inadequate, so we must pursue better-quality content.
John Haidt’s work suggests that practices like gratitude, mindfulness, compassion, social connections, and seeking meaning and purpose can all have a significant impact on mental health. These are often core elements of many spiritual practices and traditions, and they can help individuals build resilience, emotional regulation, and a sense of well-being.
As parents and teachers, we need to both model, and choreograph for our children, relevant spiritual practices to safeguard, strengthen or perhaps restore our children’s and our own mental health.
There is sound advice for us in the book of Proverbs where Wisdom points us to a Christian foundation for a fulfilled and healthy life……..
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. (ch3v1,2) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight” (vv5,6)
Peter Grimes | Headmaster
References:
‘The Anxious Generation’ (2024) Jonathan Haidt (social psychologist and Professor of Ethical Leadership at New York University).
